Wild About Gardens Newsletter May 2013

This is a time of temptation – to add to garden planting by any means possible. You may have a gap in your border or want to create a colourful container for your patio. There’s a plethora of plant and seed choice at garden centres and online, giving heaps of inspiration.

The question is: how to choose? You’ll need to know what suits the soil, aspect, and size available. But of course you can also factor in what matters to wildlife, whether it’s a nectar-rich plants that are perfect for pollinators or tasty leaves for caterpillars to nibble.

If you have something larger in mind – a shrub or a tree – it’s useful to consider the type of shelter they may give to birds, for example, and whether they have flowers or berries that will attract wildlife. That way you’ll end up with a pretty garden made prettier by its wild visitors.

Things to do

• During dry weather, the water in bird baths can evaporate really quickly – keep yours topped up.
• Maintain your supply of food for birds – this helps busy adults keep themselves in good shape while they forage for other food – like caterpillars – for their chicks.
• If you are mowing an area of grass that’s got a bit long, or are tempted to strim it, it’s vital to make sure no creatures such as hedgehogs or frogs are there, as strimmers can cause serious injury to them.

More things to do in May